How much “screen time” is okay?
Parents today are faced with so many “screen time” options—TV, computers, smartphones, video games, and iPads.
It’s true. You may feel there are a lot of educational options when it comes to TV shows and computer games, and teaching your child is such an important role to fill as a parent. Let your child learn through play, experiences and talking with other kids and grownups. This will help her better understand the world she lives in. Balance time spent in front of a screen with active family time.
Did you know?
Children who watch a lot of TV (more than 2 hours a day) are more likely to be overweight or obese as they get older.
If screen time has gotten a bit out of control in your home, you are not alone. We understand that managing it can be a struggle. Keep in mind that even if you can’t cut out screen time completely, cutting back will help.
Parent 2 Parent
"We just set a family rule — 30 minutes of video games per day. Now that we’ve set a time limit, we have fewer battles."
Make small changes.
- If cutting down on your child’s TV time feels overwhelming, start with a small change. Try turning off the TV during meals.
- Make screen-free time every day. Turn off the TV, computer, smartphone, video games, and iPad.
- Keep the TV out of your child’s bedroom. Watching TV, especially before bed, can affect your child’s sleep. Try reading books or singing soothing songs instead.
Be choosy.
- If you let your child watch TV, make sure you are familiar with the show and comfortable with its content. Some cartoons may be too “grown up” for preschoolers.
- Watch TV shows on DVDs or TV On Demand. Shows with lots of ads for unhealthy foods make it harder for your child to learn to make healthy food choices.
- If you let your child play video games, choose games that encourage him to move while he plays. Try setting a timer to make sure he doesn’t play for too long.
Remember: Your child will want to copy what you do. If you are always watching TV or texting from your phone, she will want to do the same. Try to set a good example.
Parent 2 Parent
"We only let my son watch his favorite show on DVD. That way there aren’t any commercials and when one episode is over, we just turn it off."
Parent 2 Parent
"My daughter always had a TV in her room that she’d watch to fall asleep. When the TV broke, we decided not to get another one. The first three nights she was upset about it, but after that, she got over it. Now we read books before bed."
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